Development trio making positive impressions

Two of United's development squad have already made a positive impression Down Under.

Sam Graham and Stephen Mallon joined the Central Coast Mariners until the end of the season before the closure of the transfer window last month.

And Mariners assistant head coach and former Blades midfielder Nick Montgomery is delighted with their progress to date.He remarked: "Sam and Stephen both played in our 1-1 draw with Sydney FC at the weekend.

"Sam also impressed against the Western Sydney Wanderers. He's performed excellently, against two of the marquee players in the division, showing great maturity and decision making.

"Stephen has also adapted well having settled into his new surrounds, he is getting up to pace with the demands of the game and both are working hard on their video analysis, as we aim to educate them further."

Meanwhile, another development prospect came up against Wayne Rooney in a pre-season friendly.

Jordan Doherty, currently on-loan with the Tampa Bay Rowdies, managed by Neill Collins, featured in the second-half, as Rooney's DC United overcame the Rowdies 1-0.